Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that immediately after liftoff, the passenger asked if he needed the map. The pilot replied that he would need it, but not at that moment. The passenger then placed the map between the seats for later use.
Sequence of Events
As the pilot attempted to retract and lock the landing gear using the gear handle, he noticed that the handle would not lock into place because the map was obstructing it. He released the handle, threw the map into the back seat, and reached for the handle again. Meanwhile, the landing gear lowered, the airplane pitched down, and it impacted the runway.
Pilot Recommendation
The pilot suggested that the accident could have been prevented by not taking his eyes off the runway.